OLYMPIA -- After a two-year absence, a special fishing event for children with disabilities will return Saturday, July 9 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Merwin Fish Hatchery, east of Woodland.

More than 100 young people and their families have participated in past years during the Merwin Special Kids Day, sponsored by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) and Pacific Power.

Participants are asked to pre-register for this event by June 30 at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/merwin-special-kids-day-registration-304212235987. For additional information, call 360-225-4391.

Prior to the event, WDFW will plant the wheelchair-accessible hatchery waters with up to 3,000 catchable trout weighing up to four pounds. Volunteers will then serve as one-on-one fishing coaches, assisting youngsters throughout the day.

Rods, reels, tackle and T-shirts will be provided for the young fishers to use and keep. A free barbecue lunch will be served, followed by a casting contest and other activities.

This event is intended for children with disabilities only. Since 1999, the event has drawn participants from the Vancouver School for the Blind, Doernbecher Children's Hospital, Emanuel Legacy, Kaiser Kids and Shriners hospitals, but all children with disabilities are invited to join in the fun.

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife works to preserve, protect, and perpetuate fish, wildlife and ecosystems while providing sustainable fish, wildlife, and recreational and commercial opportunities.